Best Californian Restaurants in South Los Angeles

Chef Kursten stepped away from his busy kitchen to come greet our table, which was a nice touch. Carson our waiter was super funny and engaging in our conversation. Can’t wait to come back.

Vespertine delivered one of the most extraordinary dining experiences we’ve ever had in the United States, rivaling the caliber of Michelin three-star restaurants abroad, such as Boragó in Santiago. The food was a stunning combination of originality, flavor, and artistry, each dish a masterpiece that delighted the palate and the eye. Service was impeccable, with the timing of each course orchestrated to perfection. The building itself is a marvel, adding a unique and modern dimension to the experience. While the evening was nearly flawless, there were a few minor areas for improvement. The final dessert felt overly elaborate and heavy, making it challenging to fully enjoy at the end of such a substantial meal. The dessert room, located near the entrance, was uncomfortably chilly on a cool evening, requiring us to retrieve our coats. Lastly, the $20 valet charge came as an unwelcome surprise, especially considering the restaurant’s high price point and the fact that the parking lot is private and on-site. A clearer sign or complimentary parking would have better matched the overall premium experience. These small critiques aside, Vespertine was a truly unforgettable dining journey—one we would highly recommend to anyone seeking a world-class culinary adventure in Los Angeles.

Almost a month ago, Dtagon was lovely to assist with getting clarification on the reservations and updating it to more people and arranging a nice table. When we arrived for Christmas, the host and hostess took care to sort out my guests and made us all feel Welcome.  we asked for some special request so we could take pictures with our glasses and champagne and they accommodate it and we’re most helpful. The food was great, we had a lovely time and will definitely be back.! A lovely start to our Christmas Day!

Loved the Christmas Eve tasting. Each dish was the star of its own act....I really couldn't pick out a favorite. I love all the flavors and the architecture is so captivating. I felt transported to a different world for one night for a very special foodie experience. Thank you for making this so special for me and my family.

I have been really sick for years and haven’t been out in almost two years. So finding a restaurant to celebrate Christmas Eve for the first time in a while was pretty important to me. Once I saw the pictures of Arden on OpenTable I knew I just had to go there. Obviously, the food and service had to considered to. After a deep dive of photos, reviews, and reading their Christmas Eve pri fix meal options, it was settled. We were going to Arden! Making a reservation and special seating requests was so easy. They also are one of the few newer restaurants that actually answer their phone. I was running a few minutes late and they were really accommodating. The valet was cheaper than taking a ride share service and the gentleman was so polite. Walking up to the entrance was gorgeous. It just kept getting more and more beautiful as we ascended the steps and made it to the restaurant floor. Luckily, they also are very wheelchair/handicapable! I normally am in a wheelchair and would have easily just ramped up to their wheelchair elevator and been let out on the main floor. Once we made it up to the floor we were immediately greeted by a very kind employee who assisted in helping us find the perfect table for my needs. Water and my requested coke almost immediately showed up at the table! Our waitress, Mika, just made out night. She was extremely informed about every dish listed in each category on the menu. Food arrived promptly, hot, and with a smile. I needed a slight change to the dish I really wanted. And even though there were no substitutions, she came up with a great idea and made it happen for me so I could enjoy my meal. Mika had a fabulous disposition, was funny and kind, and was available/checked in the perfect intervals. Plenty of service without being smothered. We never felt rushed, even though they were busy. She kept my water and coke filled without asking, helped us adjust the heat when needed while keeping other customers comfortable, and was jus